Hoarding: The Facts about the Disorder and the Clean-Up Process

Hoarding: The Facts about the Disorder and the Clean-Up Process

Room Imagine throwing away your most prized or valuable possession. The anxiety you are experiencing is what a hoarder goes through on a daily basis, even when it comes to worthless items and things that others might view as junk. By definition, hoarding is the persistent difficulty of discarding or parting with possessions, regardless of their actual value. Hoarding can create unsafe and unsanitary living conditions, not to mention the emotional strain on friends and family. Read on to learn more about the facts of hoarding and the clean-up process, including the benefits of a dumpster rental in Lakewood .

Symptoms and Behaviors

Hoarding can be related to compulsive buying, the compulsive acquisition of free items, or the compulsive search for perfect or unique items. Someone who suffers from hoarding may exhibit the inability to throw away possessions, difficulty categorizing or organizing possessions, and severe anxiety when attempting to discard items. Hoarders may also exhibit suspicion and distrust of other people touching their items.

Dangers of Hoarding

Even minor hoarding problems can result in a diminished quality of life. A lack of functional living space is common among hoarders, who may also live in unhealthy or dangerous conditions due to improper waste disposal. Hoarders also cope with malfunctioning appliances and systems rather than allow qualified individuals into their home to fix a problem, which means they often live without heat or other necessary comforts. Social isolation, financial difficulties, and family or marital discord are also common among hoarders.

The Clean-Up Process

If you identify a friend or relative who may have a hoarding problem, you need to act quickly to address the problem and improve your loved one’s quality of life. If your friend or relative accepts your help, rent a dumpster and begin the process of going through the junk. Respect your loved one’s wishes and don’t throw anything away without his permission. You will probably experience come pushback, so make sure you can extend your dumpster rental if necessary.